Ayahs of the Day:
We will certainly test you until we know those of you who strive and those who are constant; We will certainly bring out the facts about you. As for those who scoff and obstruct others from the way of God, and contend with the messenger after guidance has been made clear to them, they will never harm God at all, and God will defeat their actions. [47: 31,32]
Hadith of the Day:
If you do not loose your temper with any of your fellow creatures, you will be safe from the wrath of Allah on the Day of Judgment. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Beneficial knowledge is that which increases your fear of God Most High, improves your ability to discern the faults of your ego, discloses to you the plots and delusions of the Devil, and makes you more cognizant of how to worship your Lord. [Shaykh Hamza Karamali]
Guidance of the Day:
The feeling and expression of Love is the common need of all human beings. There is never a person with tough exterior who was not soft and sensitive underneath. When we ask for anything, we are asking for love. The meanest person in the world craves the feeling of love just as much as you and I do, perhaps even more so. It is the seeking of love that is the hidden motive behind all questions and disruptions, and the giving of love that satisfies them.
Yet, too often we speak unthinkingly, with sarcasms, innuendoes, barbs, and banter, acting as if the other guy would be able to take a joke that we, ourselves, could not. We must never underestimate the healing potential of any act of kindness that we do, however small. We can overcome negativity with love. The fruit of thoughtfulness sometimes remain hidden until the moment is ripe. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
It is no coincidence that the words human and kind have been put together to form this family. Let us live what our name implies. We are one entity, humankind. And, like our bodies, to injure one part is to hurt the whole. We are a team and when one player is injured, the entire team suffers. It is time that we look past our external differences and realize that we are all the same color on the inside. The man who lives for self alone, lives for the meanest mortal known.
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
Tuesday, December 30, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....116
1. The one who truly knows Allah fills all his moments seeking meaning, and perpetually increasing in obedience. [Ibrahim bin Adham]
2. When death comes it does not return empty handed, so occupy every moment in preparedness of it. [Shaqeeq al Balkhi]
3. Look at the heavens and realize Who its Creator is, and be wary that He always knows your states. [Bayazeed al Bustami]
4. Try to cultivate six habits:
1. Take nothing from Allah's provision when you disobey Him.
2. Leave Allah's dominion when you intend to disobey Him.
3. Disobey Allah only where He cannot see you.
4. At the time of death ask for respite from the angel of death.
5. Do not allow the questioning angels into the grave with you.
6. Refuse to enter the Hellfire when you are ordered to.... If none of these are possible then do not disobey Him.[Ibrahim bin Adham]
2. When death comes it does not return empty handed, so occupy every moment in preparedness of it. [Shaqeeq al Balkhi]
3. Look at the heavens and realize Who its Creator is, and be wary that He always knows your states. [Bayazeed al Bustami]
4. Try to cultivate six habits:
1. Take nothing from Allah's provision when you disobey Him.
2. Leave Allah's dominion when you intend to disobey Him.
3. Disobey Allah only where He cannot see you.
4. At the time of death ask for respite from the angel of death.
5. Do not allow the questioning angels into the grave with you.
6. Refuse to enter the Hellfire when you are ordered to.... If none of these are possible then do not disobey Him.[Ibrahim bin Adham]
Monday, December 29, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1077
Ayah of the Day:
So recognize that there is no deity but God, and seek forgiveness for your fault, and for the believing men and believing women: for God knows your comings and goings and your dwellings. [47: 19]
Hadith of the Day:
If you love what Allah and His messenger love, you will be among their beloved ones. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Sincerity is that you call upon no one other than God to be a witness to your doings. [al-Qushayri]
Guidance of the Day:
Understand well the meaning of service. You must now put your ideas into practical expression, for time is short and the need paramount. Though you understand the necessity of service, you must understand its urgency in this time of shadows. In a darkened room, a tiny candle casts a great beam.
As you enter the ranks of those who serve humankind, you awaken to the very purpose of those whose intention is the end of all suffering. Hold to your highest values in all of your endeavors. Set your mind on the Kingdom of Heaven, even when you act on earth. Be not dissuaded by thoughts of mediocrity and mundane goals. Your goal is the expression of Love to God. Accept nothing less, for nothing else has any meaning. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Sin makes its own hell, and goodness its own heaven. Little sins make room for great, and one brings in all. Every man carries the bundle of his sins upon his own back. God pardons those who do through frailty sin, but not those that persevere therein.
So recognize that there is no deity but God, and seek forgiveness for your fault, and for the believing men and believing women: for God knows your comings and goings and your dwellings. [47: 19]
Hadith of the Day:
If you love what Allah and His messenger love, you will be among their beloved ones. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Sincerity is that you call upon no one other than God to be a witness to your doings. [al-Qushayri]
Guidance of the Day:
Understand well the meaning of service. You must now put your ideas into practical expression, for time is short and the need paramount. Though you understand the necessity of service, you must understand its urgency in this time of shadows. In a darkened room, a tiny candle casts a great beam.
As you enter the ranks of those who serve humankind, you awaken to the very purpose of those whose intention is the end of all suffering. Hold to your highest values in all of your endeavors. Set your mind on the Kingdom of Heaven, even when you act on earth. Be not dissuaded by thoughts of mediocrity and mundane goals. Your goal is the expression of Love to God. Accept nothing less, for nothing else has any meaning. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Sin makes its own hell, and goodness its own heaven. Little sins make room for great, and one brings in all. Every man carries the bundle of his sins upon his own back. God pardons those who do through frailty sin, but not those that persevere therein.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....115
1. Repentance of liars is mere lip service, for the true repentance liberates one from sins. [Rabia Basri]
2. Even after burying your own parents you take no lesson; knowing that death is inevitable, you choose to remain heedless of it. [Ibrahim al Adham]
3. He who desires honor in this world should not make his needs known to anyone in creation, nor should he seek out the faults of any other. [Bishr Al Hafi
4. The wealthiest person is the one who has abundance of taqwa.
5. Satan does not bother to misguide the one who runs after the world for he is already misguided. [Mohammad Waa'se]
6. Those who Allah loves are granted three things--------the overflowing generosity of the river, the illumination of the sun, and the humbleness of the earth. [Bayazeed al Bustami]
7.He who truly fears his Lord has freed his tongue of vain talk. [Fudhail ibn Iyaadh]
8. He whose heart is in the awe of his Lord, everything in creation is in awe of him. [Fudhail ibn Iyaadh]
9. The one who remains fearful of Allah is never touched by the worries of the world. [Sufyan al Thawri]
10. One's wordly abstinence is commensurate with one's longing for the world to come. [Fudhail bin Iyaadh]
2. Even after burying your own parents you take no lesson; knowing that death is inevitable, you choose to remain heedless of it. [Ibrahim al Adham]
3. He who desires honor in this world should not make his needs known to anyone in creation, nor should he seek out the faults of any other. [Bishr Al Hafi
4. The wealthiest person is the one who has abundance of taqwa.
5. Satan does not bother to misguide the one who runs after the world for he is already misguided. [Mohammad Waa'se]
6. Those who Allah loves are granted three things--------the overflowing generosity of the river, the illumination of the sun, and the humbleness of the earth. [Bayazeed al Bustami]
7.He who truly fears his Lord has freed his tongue of vain talk. [Fudhail ibn Iyaadh]
8. He whose heart is in the awe of his Lord, everything in creation is in awe of him. [Fudhail ibn Iyaadh]
9. The one who remains fearful of Allah is never touched by the worries of the world. [Sufyan al Thawri]
10. One's wordly abstinence is commensurate with one's longing for the world to come. [Fudhail bin Iyaadh]
Friday, December 26, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1076
Ayahs of the Day:
As for those receptive to guidance, God increases guidance for them, giving them their conscience. So are they waiting for anything but the end of time, lest it come upon them suddenly? But signs of it have already come; so how can their reminder benefit when it has come upon them? [47: 17,18]
Hadith of the Day:
Put your trust in Allah, you will be the strongest of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Actions are but lifeless forms whose soul is the secret of sincerity in them. [Ibn Ata'Allah]
Guidance of the Day:
When you meditate, dedicate your upliftment to the upliftment of all humanity. Have the intention that you are not just meditating for yourself, but for the benefit of all. We have within our very minds, hearts, and hands the power to heal and to transform the world. One kind word, look, or touch can make all the difference to a brother or sister in need of love. It is said that "if everyone on earth loved each other, the earth would shine brighter than the sun."
If every one of us would do one little kind act for another person on just one day, the earth would be redeemed instantly. It would release such a powerful energy of light and love that the forces of darkness, in the form of pollution, weapons, and hatred, would immediately disburse. Such a day would set into motion a snowball of service that could cleanse the earth of all the negative things that have ever been accumulated, and release the spirit of hope and giving throughout the universe so that every planet in every galaxy would reap the benefit. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Time is fixed income and, as with any income, the real problem facing most of us is how to live successfully within our daily allotment. Learn to use ten minutes intelligently. It will pay you huge dividends. Guard well your spare moments. They are like uncut diamonds. Discard them and their value will never be known. Improve them and they will become the brightest gems in a useful life.
As for those receptive to guidance, God increases guidance for them, giving them their conscience. So are they waiting for anything but the end of time, lest it come upon them suddenly? But signs of it have already come; so how can their reminder benefit when it has come upon them? [47: 17,18]
Hadith of the Day:
Put your trust in Allah, you will be the strongest of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Actions are but lifeless forms whose soul is the secret of sincerity in them. [Ibn Ata'Allah]
Guidance of the Day:
When you meditate, dedicate your upliftment to the upliftment of all humanity. Have the intention that you are not just meditating for yourself, but for the benefit of all. We have within our very minds, hearts, and hands the power to heal and to transform the world. One kind word, look, or touch can make all the difference to a brother or sister in need of love. It is said that "if everyone on earth loved each other, the earth would shine brighter than the sun."
If every one of us would do one little kind act for another person on just one day, the earth would be redeemed instantly. It would release such a powerful energy of light and love that the forces of darkness, in the form of pollution, weapons, and hatred, would immediately disburse. Such a day would set into motion a snowball of service that could cleanse the earth of all the negative things that have ever been accumulated, and release the spirit of hope and giving throughout the universe so that every planet in every galaxy would reap the benefit. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Time is fixed income and, as with any income, the real problem facing most of us is how to live successfully within our daily allotment. Learn to use ten minutes intelligently. It will pay you huge dividends. Guard well your spare moments. They are like uncut diamonds. Discard them and their value will never be known. Improve them and they will become the brightest gems in a useful life.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....114
1. The wise one is too judicious to waste his time in nonsense and to spend his money in something that will not bring him return.
2. Determination can overcome unsurmountable barriers. It is the fuel that propels one to higher virtues.
3. It is not enough to be merely intelligent; one needs true guidance as well.
4. Every true man, who is a little above the level of the beasts and plants, lives so as to give a meaning and a value to his own life.
5. Life has value only when it has something valuable as its object------for the Believers it is the Akhirah.
6.No material success can for a moment give such inner satisfaction as the sense of living for a purpose.
7. Life is full of opportunities-------no great man ever complains of want of opportunity.
8. Do whatever you do intensely. The immature mind hops from one thing to another; the mature mind seeks to follow through.
9. The superior man is modest in his speech, but excels in his activity.
10. Adversity introduces a man to himself. He knows not his own strength who has not met adversity.
2. Determination can overcome unsurmountable barriers. It is the fuel that propels one to higher virtues.
3. It is not enough to be merely intelligent; one needs true guidance as well.
4. Every true man, who is a little above the level of the beasts and plants, lives so as to give a meaning and a value to his own life.
5. Life has value only when it has something valuable as its object------for the Believers it is the Akhirah.
6.No material success can for a moment give such inner satisfaction as the sense of living for a purpose.
7. Life is full of opportunities-------no great man ever complains of want of opportunity.
8. Do whatever you do intensely. The immature mind hops from one thing to another; the mature mind seeks to follow through.
9. The superior man is modest in his speech, but excels in his activity.
10. Adversity introduces a man to himself. He knows not his own strength who has not met adversity.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1075
Ayah of the Day:
The model of the garden promised to the conscientious: in it are streams of water made pure and clean; and streams of milk whose taste never changes; and streams of wine that is bliss to those who drink it; and streams of pure honey. And there is every kind of fruit for them there, and forgiveness from their Lord. Is that like the state of those who remain in the fire, and given boiling water to drink, and it lacerates their guts? [47: 15]
Hadith of the Day:
If you do not complain to any fellow creature, you will be the most honorable of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Allah's generosity is connected to gratitude, and gratitude is linked to increase in His generosity. The generosity of Allah will not stop increasing unless the gratitude of the servant ceases. [Ali radi Allah anhu]
Guidance of the Day:
When we take from the great bounty of God, but refuse to give it, we remain entrapped in a web of self. Sharing what we have received, spiritually and physically, is the true expression of brotherhood. When we give to all what God has given to us, God shall not diminish our supply, but only increase it.
When we perform an act of service and consecrate it in the name of Love, we align ourselves with all the selfless servants of humanity through whom the world has ever been blessed. When we reach out to another, we join all the devotees of loving kindness. When we work for God, we cannot fail. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
You end up as you deserve. In old age you must put up with the face, friends, the health, and the children you have earned. A comfortable old age is the reward of a well-spent youth. Instead of its bringing sad melancholy prospects of decay, it would give us hopes of eternal youth in a better world.
The model of the garden promised to the conscientious: in it are streams of water made pure and clean; and streams of milk whose taste never changes; and streams of wine that is bliss to those who drink it; and streams of pure honey. And there is every kind of fruit for them there, and forgiveness from their Lord. Is that like the state of those who remain in the fire, and given boiling water to drink, and it lacerates their guts? [47: 15]
Hadith of the Day:
If you do not complain to any fellow creature, you will be the most honorable of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Allah's generosity is connected to gratitude, and gratitude is linked to increase in His generosity. The generosity of Allah will not stop increasing unless the gratitude of the servant ceases. [Ali radi Allah anhu]
Guidance of the Day:
When we take from the great bounty of God, but refuse to give it, we remain entrapped in a web of self. Sharing what we have received, spiritually and physically, is the true expression of brotherhood. When we give to all what God has given to us, God shall not diminish our supply, but only increase it.
When we perform an act of service and consecrate it in the name of Love, we align ourselves with all the selfless servants of humanity through whom the world has ever been blessed. When we reach out to another, we join all the devotees of loving kindness. When we work for God, we cannot fail. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
You end up as you deserve. In old age you must put up with the face, friends, the health, and the children you have earned. A comfortable old age is the reward of a well-spent youth. Instead of its bringing sad melancholy prospects of decay, it would give us hopes of eternal youth in a better world.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....113
1. It's Allah's words, not music, that brings peace to a person. Music is a cheap and forbidden substitute.
2. Performing virtuous deeds is the crown on the head of a happy life.
3. There is a secret to guide you in this life---------and that is to know the triviality of this world.
4. Reading good material opens the mind, guides one to correct morals and sharpens one's ability to think.
5. The heart does not feel deserted except when it disobeys its Lord.
6. Three things of life once gone never come back-------time, words, and opportunity.
7. Three things of life must never be lost---------peace, hope, and honesty.
8. From the rights of mutual love is to forgive and overlook shortcomings.
9. Being blessed with honor is also a test.
10. From the lack of fairness is to expect refinement in the world, while you yourself are unrefined.
2. Performing virtuous deeds is the crown on the head of a happy life.
3. There is a secret to guide you in this life---------and that is to know the triviality of this world.
4. Reading good material opens the mind, guides one to correct morals and sharpens one's ability to think.
5. The heart does not feel deserted except when it disobeys its Lord.
6. Three things of life once gone never come back-------time, words, and opportunity.
7. Three things of life must never be lost---------peace, hope, and honesty.
8. From the rights of mutual love is to forgive and overlook shortcomings.
9. Being blessed with honor is also a test.
10. From the lack of fairness is to expect refinement in the world, while you yourself are unrefined.
Sunday, December 21, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1074
Ayahs of the Day:
And how many cities have been more powerful than yours that expelled you: We destroyed them, and there was no one to help them. Is one who follows evidence from his Lord like one to whom the evil of his acts seems good, as they follow their desires? [47: 13,14]
Hadith of the Day:
Do good to others and you will be the best of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Renunciation of the world is followed by peace; its desire brings sorrow. Restrain your desires and discipline your self. [Rabia al Adawiya]
Guidance of the Day:
All acts of charity or giving are valuable only inasmuch as they recognize the same dignity of those toward whom the contribution is directed. Any money or time given to another, without recognizing their full equality, is as chaff in the wind, and serves only the mockery of ego.
No matter what our personal path to God, service is always a necessary step on the path. The student of Truth must teach what he has learned, by living it. The lover of God must love God in his brethren. Awakening is useless unless it awakens the world; wisdom is meaningless unless it is lived; and love is fruitless unless it is given. He who would be worthy of that which has been given to him must share it. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Courage is an inner resolution to go forward in spite of obstacles and frightening situations; cowardice is a submissive surrender to circumstance. Courage breeds creative self-affirmation; cowardice produces destructive self-abnegation. Courage faces fear and thereby masters it; cowardice represses fear and is thereby mastered by it. We must constantly build dikes of courage to hold back the flood of fear.
And how many cities have been more powerful than yours that expelled you: We destroyed them, and there was no one to help them. Is one who follows evidence from his Lord like one to whom the evil of his acts seems good, as they follow their desires? [47: 13,14]
Hadith of the Day:
Do good to others and you will be the best of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Renunciation of the world is followed by peace; its desire brings sorrow. Restrain your desires and discipline your self. [Rabia al Adawiya]
Guidance of the Day:
All acts of charity or giving are valuable only inasmuch as they recognize the same dignity of those toward whom the contribution is directed. Any money or time given to another, without recognizing their full equality, is as chaff in the wind, and serves only the mockery of ego.
No matter what our personal path to God, service is always a necessary step on the path. The student of Truth must teach what he has learned, by living it. The lover of God must love God in his brethren. Awakening is useless unless it awakens the world; wisdom is meaningless unless it is lived; and love is fruitless unless it is given. He who would be worthy of that which has been given to him must share it. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Courage is an inner resolution to go forward in spite of obstacles and frightening situations; cowardice is a submissive surrender to circumstance. Courage breeds creative self-affirmation; cowardice produces destructive self-abnegation. Courage faces fear and thereby masters it; cowardice represses fear and is thereby mastered by it. We must constantly build dikes of courage to hold back the flood of fear.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....112
1. The habit of looking on the bright side in every circumstance is more valuable that having a large income.
2. The ideal person is he who takes pleasure in serving others. The noble hearted person works for people.
3. Happiness, cheerfulness, and calmness are often more effacious than doctors' pills.
4. Hardship before comfort is analogous to hunger before food--------food comes at a time when it has its greatest effect on the taste buds.
5. Hardship is as beneficial to the soul as it is unwelcome in one's life.
6. Whoever looks reflectively at the universe knows that the One Who created it perfectly is All-Wise and is not playing with the dice.
7. Anger is one of the factors that cause depression and sadness--------we need to get rid of it.
8. By seeking to be the center of attention and by trying to please others, you lose both peace and stability in your life.
9. The Muslim has a mission and a message that are more important than revenge, malice, and hate.
10. Performing noble deeds is the way to happiness--------doing good to others brings happiness to both heart and soul.
2. The ideal person is he who takes pleasure in serving others. The noble hearted person works for people.
3. Happiness, cheerfulness, and calmness are often more effacious than doctors' pills.
4. Hardship before comfort is analogous to hunger before food--------food comes at a time when it has its greatest effect on the taste buds.
5. Hardship is as beneficial to the soul as it is unwelcome in one's life.
6. Whoever looks reflectively at the universe knows that the One Who created it perfectly is All-Wise and is not playing with the dice.
7. Anger is one of the factors that cause depression and sadness--------we need to get rid of it.
8. By seeking to be the center of attention and by trying to please others, you lose both peace and stability in your life.
9. The Muslim has a mission and a message that are more important than revenge, malice, and hate.
10. Performing noble deeds is the way to happiness--------doing good to others brings happiness to both heart and soul.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1073
Ayah of the Day:
Those who believe and do good deeds God will admit them into gardens below which rivers flow. And as for those who scoff, they enjoy themselves a while, eating like cattle, but their abode will be the fire. [47: 12]
Hadith of the Day:
Desire for others what you desire for yourself, and you will be the most just of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
If God elevates you, you will be firmly established, but if you rely on yourself you will fall. [Shaykh Abu Madyan]
Guidance of the Day:
Too often we want the other person to consider our needs more than we are willing to consider theirs. The quickest way for us to end any strife is to show our "opponent" that we are aware of his or her point of view. The moment he or she feels recognized, even in the slightest way, their wrath will subside, and resolution is possible. When "You listen to me" becomes "I am willing to hear you," peace replaces discord. Agree with your adversary quickly, in this way will harmony be where bitterness was.
The highest form of service is forgiveness. It is very difficult, from human point of view, to forgive. Yet, to see the Light of God within a human being, no matter what their outer circumstance or appearance, is a deep act of love. In forgiving, we are affirming the true worth of a brother or sister who may have been spurned by a heartless world. We are serving him or her by recognizing the holiness within them, though the world would recognize only evil. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Indeed, this need of individuals to be right is so great that they are willing to sacrifice themselves, their relationships, and even love for it. When you are willing to give up being right, you will find peace and happiness. It is when you are ready to learn that, you will be right. If you wish to be happy and free, give up having to be right all the time.
Those who believe and do good deeds God will admit them into gardens below which rivers flow. And as for those who scoff, they enjoy themselves a while, eating like cattle, but their abode will be the fire. [47: 12]
Hadith of the Day:
Desire for others what you desire for yourself, and you will be the most just of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
If God elevates you, you will be firmly established, but if you rely on yourself you will fall. [Shaykh Abu Madyan]
Guidance of the Day:
Too often we want the other person to consider our needs more than we are willing to consider theirs. The quickest way for us to end any strife is to show our "opponent" that we are aware of his or her point of view. The moment he or she feels recognized, even in the slightest way, their wrath will subside, and resolution is possible. When "You listen to me" becomes "I am willing to hear you," peace replaces discord. Agree with your adversary quickly, in this way will harmony be where bitterness was.
The highest form of service is forgiveness. It is very difficult, from human point of view, to forgive. Yet, to see the Light of God within a human being, no matter what their outer circumstance or appearance, is a deep act of love. In forgiving, we are affirming the true worth of a brother or sister who may have been spurned by a heartless world. We are serving him or her by recognizing the holiness within them, though the world would recognize only evil. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Indeed, this need of individuals to be right is so great that they are willing to sacrifice themselves, their relationships, and even love for it. When you are willing to give up being right, you will find peace and happiness. It is when you are ready to learn that, you will be right. If you wish to be happy and free, give up having to be right all the time.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....111
1. Do not be shaken by criticism; instead, be firm. And know that, in proportion to your worth, the level of people's criticism rises.
2. Patience, as opposed to anxiety, bears the fruit of comfort; and the one who does not voluntarily show patience will have it forced upon him by circumstances.
3. Tribulation is similar to sickness; it must run its course before it goes away, and the one who is hasty in attempting to remove it, often causes it to augment and increase.
4. It is imperative that the one who is afflicted be patient; he must wait with hope for relief, and he must be persistent in his prayers.
5. If you are of sound judgment, show resolution. For ill judgment is in hesitation.
6. Life is too short to make it even shorter through disputes.
7. Do not grieve over trivialities--------and know that the whole world is trivial.
8. A person's value is measured according to his determination and his goal.
9. Do not grieve when you are shown overt enmity, for if you forgive and forget, you will have achieved nobility in this world and honor in the next.
10. An angry man is always replete with poison. Who needs the poison?
2. Patience, as opposed to anxiety, bears the fruit of comfort; and the one who does not voluntarily show patience will have it forced upon him by circumstances.
3. Tribulation is similar to sickness; it must run its course before it goes away, and the one who is hasty in attempting to remove it, often causes it to augment and increase.
4. It is imperative that the one who is afflicted be patient; he must wait with hope for relief, and he must be persistent in his prayers.
5. If you are of sound judgment, show resolution. For ill judgment is in hesitation.
6. Life is too short to make it even shorter through disputes.
7. Do not grieve over trivialities--------and know that the whole world is trivial.
8. A person's value is measured according to his determination and his goal.
9. Do not grieve when you are shown overt enmity, for if you forgive and forget, you will have achieved nobility in this world and honor in the next.
10. An angry man is always replete with poison. Who needs the poison?
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1072
Ayahs of the Day:
Haven't they traveled the earth and seen how those before them ended up? God destroyed them; and the same will happen to the disbelievers. That is because God is the Protector of those who believe, while the disbelievers have no protector. [47: 10, 11]
Hadith of the Day:
Fear Allah, and you will be the most learned of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
By analogy, the external form of salat is its body, and humility (khudu) and self-effacement (khushu), is its soul. What is the benefit of the body without the soul? [Shaykh al Kabbani]
Guidance of the Day:
Service is not always enjoyable and pleasant; sometimes it is demanding and repugnant to the senses. True love is no game of the faint-hearted and the weak; it is born of strength and understanding. In order to truly serve, we must be willing to reach out to the unreachable; to tolerate the intolerable; and to love the unlovable. Then, and only then, can we understand the true meaning of selfless service.
When we are willing to serve in this way, we find the end of argument, strife, and discord in our lives. Practicing outward thinking brings freedom and joy beyond compare. The nature of argument is two people selfishly grabbing for themselves, like a tug of war. All the words and actions can be boiled down to "Me!". . . countered by, "No, Me!" and so on, until both parties withdraw in painful isolation, or one person is willing to let go a little bit and give in to the other. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
The deadliest sins are the consciousness of no sin. The greatest security against sin is to be shocked at its presence. Take away the motive, and the sin is taken away. For one to sin, indeed is human: but to persevere in sin is not human but altogether satanic.
Haven't they traveled the earth and seen how those before them ended up? God destroyed them; and the same will happen to the disbelievers. That is because God is the Protector of those who believe, while the disbelievers have no protector. [47: 10, 11]
Hadith of the Day:
Fear Allah, and you will be the most learned of men. [Ahmad]
Wise Quote of the Day:
By analogy, the external form of salat is its body, and humility (khudu) and self-effacement (khushu), is its soul. What is the benefit of the body without the soul? [Shaykh al Kabbani]
Guidance of the Day:
Service is not always enjoyable and pleasant; sometimes it is demanding and repugnant to the senses. True love is no game of the faint-hearted and the weak; it is born of strength and understanding. In order to truly serve, we must be willing to reach out to the unreachable; to tolerate the intolerable; and to love the unlovable. Then, and only then, can we understand the true meaning of selfless service.
When we are willing to serve in this way, we find the end of argument, strife, and discord in our lives. Practicing outward thinking brings freedom and joy beyond compare. The nature of argument is two people selfishly grabbing for themselves, like a tug of war. All the words and actions can be boiled down to "Me!". . . countered by, "No, Me!" and so on, until both parties withdraw in painful isolation, or one person is willing to let go a little bit and give in to the other. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
The deadliest sins are the consciousness of no sin. The greatest security against sin is to be shocked at its presence. Take away the motive, and the sin is taken away. For one to sin, indeed is human: but to persevere in sin is not human but altogether satanic.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....110
1. Live with heart, body, and soul for today only, without dwelling upon the past and without being anxious for the future.
2. Being preoccupied with the past and dragging past woes into present---------these are the signs of an unstable and unsound mind.
3. Idleness is destructive, and most people who suffer from worries and anxieties are the same people who are idle and inactive.
4. Rumors and gossip are the only dividends for those that are bankrupt of meaningful and fruitful work.
5. Do what is right, and turn your back to every vulgar criticism.
6. Forbearance buries the faults, tolerance is superior, silence conquers the enemy, and forgiveness is honor for which you shall be rewarded.
7. When facing criticism or unjust rebuke, those who have sensitive feelings must pour a certain amount of coolness into there nerves by force.
8. Forbearance in the times of distress is the path to both success and happiness.
9. Higher goals are not achieved through dreaming or fantasizing; they can only be reached through dedication and commitment.
10. Hardships strengthen your heart, atones for your sins, and helps to suppress an inclination towards pride and haughtiness.
2. Being preoccupied with the past and dragging past woes into present---------these are the signs of an unstable and unsound mind.
3. Idleness is destructive, and most people who suffer from worries and anxieties are the same people who are idle and inactive.
4. Rumors and gossip are the only dividends for those that are bankrupt of meaningful and fruitful work.
5. Do what is right, and turn your back to every vulgar criticism.
6. Forbearance buries the faults, tolerance is superior, silence conquers the enemy, and forgiveness is honor for which you shall be rewarded.
7. When facing criticism or unjust rebuke, those who have sensitive feelings must pour a certain amount of coolness into there nerves by force.
8. Forbearance in the times of distress is the path to both success and happiness.
9. Higher goals are not achieved through dreaming or fantasizing; they can only be reached through dedication and commitment.
10. Hardships strengthen your heart, atones for your sins, and helps to suppress an inclination towards pride and haughtiness.
Friday, December 12, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1071
Ayahs of the Day:
Believers, if you help God, God will help you, making your steps steady. As for those who scoff, there is misery for them, and God will let their works be lost. That is because they hate what God has revealed, so God makes their works fruitless. [47: 7,8,9]
Hadith of the Day:
Faith wears out in the heart of anyone of you just as clothes wear out, so ask Allah to renew the faith in your hearts. [Tabarani]
Wise Quote of the Day:
If those who do not possess knowledge avoid scholarly discussion, disagreements will end. [Imam al-Ghazali]
Guidance of the Day:
Our work in the world is made easy when we share the load. There is an expansion of the energy that we offer to another; they receive much more than we give. There is an essence of love that is added to time or energy rendered in service. It makes life satisfying for the giver and for the receiver. It inspires us to know a higher possibility for life than we have been taught to believe in.
Loving kindness in the form of service is closer to the heart of God than any other act. Serving others is a way of participating in the Grace of God. Through service it is possible not only to set aside one's own burden, but to lift the load from the shoulders of another. Serving another, then, bears a double reward. Not only do we participate in the alleviation of his or her suffering, but we free ourself, as well. When we serve we feel the bliss of God. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
You will never "find" time for anything. If you want time you must make it. What we love to do we find time to do. Time will stay long enough for anyone who will use it. No person will have occasion to complain of the want of time who never loses any. Those who make the worst of their time most complain of its brevity.
Believers, if you help God, God will help you, making your steps steady. As for those who scoff, there is misery for them, and God will let their works be lost. That is because they hate what God has revealed, so God makes their works fruitless. [47: 7,8,9]
Hadith of the Day:
Faith wears out in the heart of anyone of you just as clothes wear out, so ask Allah to renew the faith in your hearts. [Tabarani]
Wise Quote of the Day:
If those who do not possess knowledge avoid scholarly discussion, disagreements will end. [Imam al-Ghazali]
Guidance of the Day:
Our work in the world is made easy when we share the load. There is an expansion of the energy that we offer to another; they receive much more than we give. There is an essence of love that is added to time or energy rendered in service. It makes life satisfying for the giver and for the receiver. It inspires us to know a higher possibility for life than we have been taught to believe in.
Loving kindness in the form of service is closer to the heart of God than any other act. Serving others is a way of participating in the Grace of God. Through service it is possible not only to set aside one's own burden, but to lift the load from the shoulders of another. Serving another, then, bears a double reward. Not only do we participate in the alleviation of his or her suffering, but we free ourself, as well. When we serve we feel the bliss of God. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
You will never "find" time for anything. If you want time you must make it. What we love to do we find time to do. Time will stay long enough for anyone who will use it. No person will have occasion to complain of the want of time who never loses any. Those who make the worst of their time most complain of its brevity.
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....109
1. There's only one thing more contagious than the measles; and that's a good example.
2. The reason many people don't climb the ladder of success is that they are waiting for the elevator.
3. The human soul is not made for jealousy and revenge.
4. "Today is my only day" is one of the most important statements in the dictionary of happiness, for those who desire to live life in its fullest splendor and brilliance.
5. If you desire to be accepted by all and loved by all, you desire the unattainable----------But desire to be accepted by God.
6. This is the way of the noble: they face difficulties with firm resolution, and they wrestle hardship to the ground.
7. Do not be preoccupied with matters that are insignificant. If you follow this advice, you will find that most of your worries will have left you.
8. The heart should be filled with tenderness, virtue, benevolence, and a genuine love for spreading goodness to all those that are connected to it.
9. If you seek happiness, then seek out knowledge and enlightenment, and you will find anxiety, depression, and grief will leave you.
10. Live every day as if it were the last day of your life---------with this frame of mind and outlook toward life, you have no reason to allow sadness or anger to steal the little time you have.
2. The reason many people don't climb the ladder of success is that they are waiting for the elevator.
3. The human soul is not made for jealousy and revenge.
4. "Today is my only day" is one of the most important statements in the dictionary of happiness, for those who desire to live life in its fullest splendor and brilliance.
5. If you desire to be accepted by all and loved by all, you desire the unattainable----------But desire to be accepted by God.
6. This is the way of the noble: they face difficulties with firm resolution, and they wrestle hardship to the ground.
7. Do not be preoccupied with matters that are insignificant. If you follow this advice, you will find that most of your worries will have left you.
8. The heart should be filled with tenderness, virtue, benevolence, and a genuine love for spreading goodness to all those that are connected to it.
9. If you seek happiness, then seek out knowledge and enlightenment, and you will find anxiety, depression, and grief will leave you.
10. Live every day as if it were the last day of your life---------with this frame of mind and outlook toward life, you have no reason to allow sadness or anger to steal the little time you have.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1070
Ayahs of the Day:
Those who reject the way of God and also block others from it, God lets their works be lost: while those who believe and do good works, believing in what was sent down to Muhammad----as it is the truth from their Lord-----God will remove their evils from them and will make them whole. That is because those who scoff follow falsehood, while those who believe follow the truth from their Lord. Thus does God give people their models. [47: 1,2,3]
Hadith of the Day:
Know that victory accompanies perseverance, relief accompanies affliction, and ease accompanies hardship. [Tirmidhi]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Sky-scraping material achievements are of no value to the true Muslim if they hinder rather than help his spiritual growth. [Abu Muhammad Asad]
Guidance of the Day:
Opportunities to give love are always waiting for us with outstretched arms, and God's promise becomes His gift when we are but willing to embrace them. There are infinite number of ways to serve. Each of the ways is equally important. Do not berate yourself because you are not a great doctor or a social activist.
Any service that we give is essential to the well-being of all. It is a marvelous web of interdependence that unites us. All are equally dependent on each other for our work in the world, and we are all equally dependent on God, Who serves us through one another. Sometimes we are not even aware of the importance of the service that we have rendered. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Your success as family, our success as a society, depends not on what happens in the White House, but on what happens inside the house. Home is not where you live but where they understand you.
Those who reject the way of God and also block others from it, God lets their works be lost: while those who believe and do good works, believing in what was sent down to Muhammad----as it is the truth from their Lord-----God will remove their evils from them and will make them whole. That is because those who scoff follow falsehood, while those who believe follow the truth from their Lord. Thus does God give people their models. [47: 1,2,3]
Hadith of the Day:
Know that victory accompanies perseverance, relief accompanies affliction, and ease accompanies hardship. [Tirmidhi]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Sky-scraping material achievements are of no value to the true Muslim if they hinder rather than help his spiritual growth. [Abu Muhammad Asad]
Guidance of the Day:
Opportunities to give love are always waiting for us with outstretched arms, and God's promise becomes His gift when we are but willing to embrace them. There are infinite number of ways to serve. Each of the ways is equally important. Do not berate yourself because you are not a great doctor or a social activist.
Any service that we give is essential to the well-being of all. It is a marvelous web of interdependence that unites us. All are equally dependent on each other for our work in the world, and we are all equally dependent on God, Who serves us through one another. Sometimes we are not even aware of the importance of the service that we have rendered. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Your success as family, our success as a society, depends not on what happens in the White House, but on what happens inside the house. Home is not where you live but where they understand you.
Friday, December 05, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....108
1. Other people may complicate our lives, but life without them would be unbearably desolate.
2. Don't just do what you feel like doing; instead do what the Lord asks of you.
3. Who is wealthy? He who is content with what he has.
4. The fear of God may indeed be the beginning of wisdom and the corner stone of proper living.
5. When we have learned how to live, life itself is a reward.
6. It is only when you are no longer afraid to die that you can say that you are truly alive.
7. It is a sign of maturity when we stop asking------what does life have in store for me? And start asking-----what am I doing with my life?
8. There is no way to prevent dying. But the cure for the fear of death is to make sure that you have lived according to the commandments of the Lord Almighty.
9. Having an impact on another person, shaping his or her life in some small but vital way, is one of the most enduring satisfactions we will know.
10. Life, if you will, is a work of art, and if we paid loving attention to its details, we will be able to take pride in the finished product.
2. Don't just do what you feel like doing; instead do what the Lord asks of you.
3. Who is wealthy? He who is content with what he has.
4. The fear of God may indeed be the beginning of wisdom and the corner stone of proper living.
5. When we have learned how to live, life itself is a reward.
6. It is only when you are no longer afraid to die that you can say that you are truly alive.
7. It is a sign of maturity when we stop asking------what does life have in store for me? And start asking-----what am I doing with my life?
8. There is no way to prevent dying. But the cure for the fear of death is to make sure that you have lived according to the commandments of the Lord Almighty.
9. Having an impact on another person, shaping his or her life in some small but vital way, is one of the most enduring satisfactions we will know.
10. Life, if you will, is a work of art, and if we paid loving attention to its details, we will be able to take pride in the finished product.
Thursday, December 04, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1069
Ayahs of the Day:
And there are degrees for everyone, according to what they have done, as recompense for their deeds; and they will not be wronged. And on the day that scoffers will be put before the fire, (it will be said to them): "You wasted your good things in your life in this world, even as you relished them, so today you are repaid with the torment of abasement, because of your unjust arrogance on earth, and because you have been dissolute." [46: 19,20]
Hadith of the Day:
Know that what has passed by was never to befall you. And what has befallen you was never to have passed you. [Tirmidhi]
Wise Quote of the Day:
O Allah! Grant us to deal with others on the basis of thankfulness to You. [Abdul Hakeem Murad]
Guidance of the Day:
Too often, we miss the opportunities because we believe that "work" is bad. We call our opportunities "obligations" or "chores" and we grumble through them when, with just a slight shift in perspective, they can become invitations to the path to God. Treat all of your tasks, however small, as opportunities to see God and to serve Him. This is a sure way to liberation.
We do not need to leave our family or job to give God's love to all. We can begin exactly where we are, and we will find many, many opportunities to "think outward" and to serve. Every little thought and action, in fact, can be of Divine service. If you are doing the laundry, you can fold each garment with a touch of love and a word of blessing. All acts are opportunities to give love. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving. When you are giving love, you are beautiful. Today, instead of hiding behind your "scars" find some way to give love and become beautiful.
And there are degrees for everyone, according to what they have done, as recompense for their deeds; and they will not be wronged. And on the day that scoffers will be put before the fire, (it will be said to them): "You wasted your good things in your life in this world, even as you relished them, so today you are repaid with the torment of abasement, because of your unjust arrogance on earth, and because you have been dissolute." [46: 19,20]
Hadith of the Day:
Know that what has passed by was never to befall you. And what has befallen you was never to have passed you. [Tirmidhi]
Wise Quote of the Day:
O Allah! Grant us to deal with others on the basis of thankfulness to You. [Abdul Hakeem Murad]
Guidance of the Day:
Too often, we miss the opportunities because we believe that "work" is bad. We call our opportunities "obligations" or "chores" and we grumble through them when, with just a slight shift in perspective, they can become invitations to the path to God. Treat all of your tasks, however small, as opportunities to see God and to serve Him. This is a sure way to liberation.
We do not need to leave our family or job to give God's love to all. We can begin exactly where we are, and we will find many, many opportunities to "think outward" and to serve. Every little thought and action, in fact, can be of Divine service. If you are doing the laundry, you can fold each garment with a touch of love and a word of blessing. All acts are opportunities to give love. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
It's not how much we give but how much love we put into giving. When you are giving love, you are beautiful. Today, instead of hiding behind your "scars" find some way to give love and become beautiful.
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....107
1. There is a big difference between having a good time, and having time to be good.
2. A credit card adds to your credit; but adds even more to your creditors.
3. A truth told with bad intent, beats all the lies you can invent.
4. Friendship is a living thing that lasts as long as it is nourished with kindness, sympathy, and understanding.
5. True happiness consists not in the multitude of friends, but in the worth and choice.
6. Discussion is an exchange of knowledge. Argument is an exchange of ignorance.
7. Tell your child to lie for you, and your child will learn to lie to you.
8. A good leader takes a little more than his share of blame, and a little less than his share of credit.
9. The pursuit of happiness is the wrong goal. You don't become happy by pursuing happiness. You become happy by living a life that means something.
10. One human being is no human being. None of us can truly be human in isolation. The qualities that make us human emerge only in the ways we relate to other people.
2. A credit card adds to your credit; but adds even more to your creditors.
3. A truth told with bad intent, beats all the lies you can invent.
4. Friendship is a living thing that lasts as long as it is nourished with kindness, sympathy, and understanding.
5. True happiness consists not in the multitude of friends, but in the worth and choice.
6. Discussion is an exchange of knowledge. Argument is an exchange of ignorance.
7. Tell your child to lie for you, and your child will learn to lie to you.
8. A good leader takes a little more than his share of blame, and a little less than his share of credit.
9. The pursuit of happiness is the wrong goal. You don't become happy by pursuing happiness. You become happy by living a life that means something.
10. One human being is no human being. None of us can truly be human in isolation. The qualities that make us human emerge only in the ways we relate to other people.
Tuesday, December 02, 2008
LESSON OF THE DAY 1068
Ayahs of the Day:
And We have enjoined on man goodness to his parents; his mother carried him in distress and bore him in distress: and his gestation and weaning take thirty months. Then when he attains his full maturity, reaching forty years, he says, "My Lord, inspire me to be grateful for the kindness You have bestowed on me and on my parents; and to do good pleasing to You. And grant me good luck in my issue. I turn to You, acquiescent." They are those from whom We accept the best of what they have done, and for whom We overlook their sins, in the company of paradise, as the true promise they have been promised. [46: 15,16]
Hadith of the Day:
Be beloved to Allah during times of prosperity, He will know you in times of adversity. [Tirmidhi]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Death must come to all, but life and faith are not objects of ridicule. Truth will outlast all mockery: it is Allah who calls, because He cares for you. [Abdullah Yusuf Ali]
Guidance of the Day:
If we feel irritated because we do not receive a "thank you" from someone for a kind act, then we did not do it out of a desire to give love; we did it to receive something, and this is not service; it is business. When we do not receive acknowledgment for a gift or an act, we should be grateful, for this means we did it for God.
God sees all we do, even if no one else does, and He will reward us more faithfully than anyone in the world ever could. "Be not like the hypocrites who say their prayers and do good acts to be noticed by others. Do your service in secret, and your God will reward you." Those who know God know that the best way to serve God is to serve people. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Sins are like circles in the water when a stone is thrown into it; one produces another----When anger was in Cain's heart, murder was not far off. Every sin is a mistake, as well as a wrong; and the epitaph for the sinner is, "Thou fool!"
And We have enjoined on man goodness to his parents; his mother carried him in distress and bore him in distress: and his gestation and weaning take thirty months. Then when he attains his full maturity, reaching forty years, he says, "My Lord, inspire me to be grateful for the kindness You have bestowed on me and on my parents; and to do good pleasing to You. And grant me good luck in my issue. I turn to You, acquiescent." They are those from whom We accept the best of what they have done, and for whom We overlook their sins, in the company of paradise, as the true promise they have been promised. [46: 15,16]
Hadith of the Day:
Be beloved to Allah during times of prosperity, He will know you in times of adversity. [Tirmidhi]
Wise Quote of the Day:
Death must come to all, but life and faith are not objects of ridicule. Truth will outlast all mockery: it is Allah who calls, because He cares for you. [Abdullah Yusuf Ali]
Guidance of the Day:
If we feel irritated because we do not receive a "thank you" from someone for a kind act, then we did not do it out of a desire to give love; we did it to receive something, and this is not service; it is business. When we do not receive acknowledgment for a gift or an act, we should be grateful, for this means we did it for God.
God sees all we do, even if no one else does, and He will reward us more faithfully than anyone in the world ever could. "Be not like the hypocrites who say their prayers and do good acts to be noticed by others. Do your service in secret, and your God will reward you." Those who know God know that the best way to serve God is to serve people. [Cohen, The Dragon Doesn't Live Here Anymore]
Food for Thought:
Sins are like circles in the water when a stone is thrown into it; one produces another----When anger was in Cain's heart, murder was not far off. Every sin is a mistake, as well as a wrong; and the epitaph for the sinner is, "Thou fool!"
Monday, December 01, 2008
Pearls of Wisdom....106
1. We need our mistakes. We have to experience how error feels to begin to be free from it.
2. We may become wise enough to welcome difficult times because we can trust that they are, in truth, opportunities for transformation.
3. Death sets a limit on our time in this life and urges us to do what we need to do in the time we are given.
4. Death is a friendly but invisible companion, reminding us to live our lives and not just exist.
5. Whatever prepares us for death enhances our lives. Awareness of our mortality will facilitate important shifts in our priorities and values.
6. The best way to fight evil is to make energetic progress in the good.
7. Prayer and meditation are disciplines on our life journey toward our spiritual journey.
8. Take the spiritual side of life seriously.
9. Practice forgiveness. It changes everything, and its rewards are permanent.
10. Sort out and pass along the things from your attic, garage, basement, closets that you no longer use.
2. We may become wise enough to welcome difficult times because we can trust that they are, in truth, opportunities for transformation.
3. Death sets a limit on our time in this life and urges us to do what we need to do in the time we are given.
4. Death is a friendly but invisible companion, reminding us to live our lives and not just exist.
5. Whatever prepares us for death enhances our lives. Awareness of our mortality will facilitate important shifts in our priorities and values.
6. The best way to fight evil is to make energetic progress in the good.
7. Prayer and meditation are disciplines on our life journey toward our spiritual journey.
8. Take the spiritual side of life seriously.
9. Practice forgiveness. It changes everything, and its rewards are permanent.
10. Sort out and pass along the things from your attic, garage, basement, closets that you no longer use.
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